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Electrical fires or shocks kill hundreds of people and injury thousands more each year in the United States. The following electrical fire safety tips have been compiled by the Orange County Fire Authority:
Fuses and Circuit Breakers- If a fuse blows, don't just replace it. Find out what caused the circuit to overload and correct the problem.
- Never replace a fuse with one that exceeds the amperage rating for a given circuit.
- Never replace a fuse with a penny or any other material that conducts electricity.
- Determine the cause of an overload before resetting a circuit breaker.
Electrical Outlets- Have a professional electrician replace old or damaged outlets with modern, three-wired, polarized receptacles. Proper grounding is essential to prevent fire and shock hazards.
- Plugs should match outlets. Three-pronged plugs require three-wired outlets or a properly grounded adapter. Polarized plugs, with one prong wider than another, require polarized outlets.
- Never alter the wide prong of a polarized plug to make it fit into an old outlet. Have the outlet replaced and properly grounded.
- Protect children from electrical shock by installing plastic safety inserts in unused outlets.
Electrical Cords- Keep electrical cords out of traffic paths and away from areas where children play.
- Keep cords well maintained. Replace any cord that is cracked, frayed, or otherwise damaged.
- Never pinch an electrical cord against walls or furniture.
- Do not run extension cords under carpets or across doorways.
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